Man United favourite Patrice Evra set for sensational career switch - 'I'm going to put on a show'

Former Manchester United defender Patrice Evra is set to make his MMA debut under the PFL banner next month

Former Manchester United and France defender Patrice Evra is set for a sensational career switch as he prepares to make his MMA debut at PFL Europe in Paris on May 23.

The 43-year-old left Old Trafford at the end of the 2013-14 season and enjoyed stints with Juventus, Marseille and West Ham United before retiring from professional football in 2018.

Since hanging up his boots nearly seven years ago, the five-time Premier League winner has used MMA to keep fit while occasionally appearing as a pundit on Sky Sports and ITV.

However, next month, Evra will make his most significant career switch as he's set to make his combat sport debut at PFL Europe's Paris show at the Accor Arena on May 23.

The Frenchman has been training alongside PFL champion Cedric Doumbe, though his opponent for the upcoming bout will be announced in due course.

Speaking ahead of his MMA debut, Evra said: "You guys should know by now, I love this game too! I’ve performed on the world’s biggest stages, won every major trophy in football, but PFL Europe Paris will be an incredibly special night for me.

“I’ve been training alongside the best in the world for years, and they’ll also tell you I’m ready for this. I’m going to put on a show at the Accor Arena on 23 May, so come watch the spectacle.”

Meanwhile, PFL CEO Pete Murray added: "I’m told he loves this game as much as us, and we’ll find out on 23 May! We’re incredibly excited to have the superstar that is Patrice Evra fight under the PFL banner, as we’re all about exciting match-ups and making history.

"I can’t tell you how excited Patrice has been putting this together, but I think you’re going to see it at the Accor Arena. Paris, we’re coming to put on another historic evening of MMA, don’t miss out.”

Evra's MMA bout will see him become the latest ex-Premier League player to move into the world of combat sports, with former defenders Danny Simpson and Wayne Bridge involved in the Misfits influencer boxing scene.

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